Kennewick, WA HDR Benefits and Cosmetic Results
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Many patients with basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers will be treated surgically with excellent results. For selected patients who cannot (or choose not to) be treated surgically, HDR Brachytherapy provides an effective treatment alternative with few side effects and better cosmetic outcomes.
Why HDR Brachytherapy for Skin Cancer
HDR Brachytherapy treatment for skin cancer is highly effective and also produces great cosmetic results. It can be given externally or internally, depending on the type and location of the cancer.
External radiation is delivered by a linear accelerator that generates high-energy beams that are precisely directed into the tumor. External beam radiotherapy is typically delivered at Northwest Cancer Clinic over 15 sessions that last only 10 – 15 minutes each.
Internal radiation therapy, also known as brachytherapy, uses radioactive materials that can be temporarily inserted or permanently implanted during an outpatient surgery. Radiation from the implant travels only a short distance to the tumor, which spares most healthy tissues from any treatment side effects.
Cosmetic Results of HDR for Skin Cancer
Using HDR Brachytherapy to treat cancer often helps the patient avoid any need for reconstructive surgery. This is because HDR is a non-invasive alternative to surgery that delivers radiation directly to the cancerous site while sparing healthy tissue. And because there is less damage to healthy tissue, patients usually make a faster and more complete recovery.
HDR Brachytherapy for skin cancer is:
- Customized for each individual patient
- Non-Invasive
- Favorable in cosmetic outcome
- Excellent in local control rates
- Performed in a convenient outpatient setting
As opposed to standard radiotherapy, HDR Brachytherapy uses a more superficial beam to target the tumor. This results in less radiation delivered to a patient’s deeper, healthy tissues, sparing those areas and reducing side effects. And unlike standard radiotherapy, if the patient has small movements while undergoing treatment it does not affect targeting.
Why Choose Northwest Cancer Clinic
When it comes to answering the question, “how is skin cancer treated?” We here at the Northwest Cancer Clinic strive to answer, “as effectively as possible.” We believe the most effective treatment is HDR brachytherapy radiation treatment for skin cancer. In addition to being effective, this treatment for skin cancer is also non-invasive with minimal side effects. Dealing with skin cancer can be overwhelming, but treatment does not need to be. The staff at Northwest Cancer Clinic, led by radiation oncologist, Dr. Juno Choe, are here to offer you the support you need, along with the best radiation therapy treatment for skin cancer in the Tri-Cities area.
